Are Our Kids Getting Too Hooked on AI?

We've all seen how much our kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews are drawn to screens and the digital world. With artificial intelligence (AI) becoming more and more common, a leading expert from India, N K Singh, has raised an important question: are children becoming too reliant on AI, and what might that mean for their ability to think for themselves?

He warns of a 'cognitive surrender' — basically, our kids might stop using their own brains as much if AI is always there to do the thinking for them. While AI can be a fantastic tool for learning and creativity, this idea suggests that over-reliance could actually dull their natural curiosity and problem-solving skills. It's a bit like having a calculator for every maths problem; you might get the answer, but do you truly understand how you got there?

This isn't about banning AI or technology altogether. It’s about finding a healthy balance. Just as we teach children about balanced diets or road safety, we also need to guide them on how to interact with AI in a way that helps, rather than hinders, their development. We want them to be able to use these powerful tools wisely, not be completely dependent on them.

For Australian families, this means having conversations about what AI is, how it works, and when it’s best to use your own brainpower first. Encouraging activities that build critical thinking, creativity, and independent problem-solving away from screens will become even more important. It’s about preparing our kids to thrive in a world where AI is a given, but human ingenuity remains key.